F1’s roaring engines normally drown out the cheers of the crowd. But sometimes, boos can be even louder than Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Triumphal March’ on the podium. This was the scene in Austin, as the newly crowned three-time world champion, Max Verstappen, faced a chorus of disapproval from the US GP spectators.
But Verstappen, with his usual shrug, said no problem. “In the end, I’m the one that goes home with the trophy, so fine by me,” the defiant Dutchman declared. As for the anticipated storm awaiting him at the home race of his teammate, Sergio Perez, Verstappen cheekily retorted, “Then I’ll still go home with the trophy. So that’s totally fine.”
But it’s not just Verstappen in the crosshairs. Team boss Christian Horner and Dr. Helmut Marko might also be on the receiving end of the fans’ ire in Mexico, thanks to recent events and comments that haven’t sat well with fans. Marko’s “South American” remark, in particular, ignited a blaze of controversy that even caught the attention of the Mexican GP organisers themselves.
Yet, the 80-year-old Austrian remains undeterred. “We are in contact with many Mexicans and most of them are very friendly and correct,” Marko assured Sky Italia, adding, “We have no worries.” He conceded, “There are always people, let’s say enthusiastic, who don’t maintain a sporting attitude. Despite this we are happy to go to Mexico.”
Horner, ever the optimist, is anticipating some heated reactions. With a smirk, he said, “I don’t think Max will be very warmly welcomed in Mexico.” But he was quick to add that it’s like water off a duck’s back for the team. “One minute you’re the hero, the next minute you’re the villain, that’s how it is,” Horner mused.
“We love racing in Mexico and we love the Mexican fans,” Horner insisted. “The atmosphere is unique. So we’re really looking forward to the weekend.”
Meanwhile, Timo Glock, the former F1 driver now serving as a pundit for Sky Deutschland, was less restrained. “The booing is incomprehensible to me,” he remarked, perplexed by the reactions in Austin. In his view, Verstappen has been exceptional, delivering a spectacular performance throughout the year. “In my opinion, this (booing) is an absolute no-go,” Glock said.
